The Central Office of Information (COI) has today launched a new framework of regional agencies to better meet the needs of its clients with regional marketing requirements.
A total of 45 agencies from across the UK secured a place on the Regional Integrated Agency Framework, which will be managed by COI's Regional Client Account Team (Regional CAT).
The new framework has been created in response to the demands of COI's growing base of regional clients. It will enable them to access agencies with regional insight and experience, while taking advantage of COI's expertise and extensive buying power.
COI thoroughly evaluated 205 agencies and considered more than 400 case studies during the review. The successful agencies were selected on the basis of their capability to provide a full service across advertising, direct marketing, design/branding, digital and PR.
The new framework has been divided into lots to meet the requirements of the 2006 Public Contract Regulations that insist all suppliers "capable of performing the proposed contract" are invited to compete for each piece of business.
The lots are designed to geographically cover the UK and, as far as possible, reflect the boundaries of the Government Office regions and devolved nations. These are:
- Midlands (East & West)
- North West
- North East & Yorkshire & the Humber
- South West
- East
- South East
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Different is on three regional frameworks: NorthEast & Yorkshire & Humber, Scotland and East of England.
Phil Fraser, Head of COI Regional CAT, said:
"The review process was rigorous, and the agency applications of a very high standard. The winning agencies are now in a position to work on some of the most challenging briefs the government and public sector can offer.
"Clients are increasingly looking for agencies that can provide unique insight into what makes regional audiences tick and how to reach them. This framework allows us to provide in-depth regional support for clients who want to tap into that experience."
The new framework will allow COI Regional CAT greater flexibility when providing creative services across the UK. Previously, the team drew upon existing COI frameworks and a preferred supplier list in each region.
For press enquiries, please contact Dan McMillan at COI on 020 7261 8915.
Notes- COI maintains and uses around 30 world-class frameworks of suppliers which are the 'best of the best'; taking into account the anticipated needs of COI and its government and public sector clients.
- The successful agencies can be found on the Regional Integrated Agency Framework
- COI Regional CAT acts as the front door to all COI's services. Located in Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and Leeds, Regional CAT develops briefs in partnership with regional clients to ensure they have access to the most appropriate communications solutions. This can result in the work being passed to one of COI's specialist departments or the most appropriate agency. In each region, experienced account managers ensure that messages are relevant to local audiences.